Desert Ink Kit

Mojave Desert Ink Kit

Kits come with 4 individually prepared inks - Creosote Gall, Cochineal, Palo Verde and Brittlebush.

The Mojave desert has always been perceived as a place of extremes,  a place to be avoided and a place to be exploited. However, for those who take the time to explore, it is home to a fascinating ecosystem. This ink kit contains some of the most ancient and extraordinary plants found in the desert. The creosote plant, dating back 11,600 years, produces a midge gall that produces black ink and is known for its springtime scent. The Palo Verde tree is a vital part of the desert wildlife and adapts to the harsh environment by photosynthesizing through its bark. The pink cochineal color comes from the female beetle on the prickly pear cactus, which is of significant cultural importance to the Latinx community. The speckled green Brittlebush has been used as incense and medicinally for toothaches by Indigenous people. These plants represent the colors of the Mojave desert: pink sunsets, brown and yellow expanses, black skies, and sage green brush. Using this kit will transport you to the desert with its unique smells and reveal unexpected ink colors, much like the beauty of the desert revealing itself to those who take the time to appreciate it. The handcrafted  paint brush is made from a yucca tree and is best massaged before use.  This kit comes with a homemade porcelain palette and 2 handmade yucca brushes.